These Thanksgiving hacks are not shortcuts, but rather a reminder that every meal can be healthier, more creative, and an exploration of flavor. This Thanksgiving, look at each recipe with a new perspective and discover new ways to modernize your family traditions.
Monk Fruit Sugar
Monk fruit sweetener is extracted from the monk fruit, which is found in southern China and northern Thailand. Monk fruit extract is 100–250 times sweeter than table sugar, it obtains this intense sweetness from unique antioxidants called mogrosides.
How to use this Thanksgiving:
Replace all sugar use with monk fruit sweetener. You can sprinkle it over treats and sweeten drinks. If a recipe calls for baking, do half and half with another sweetener.
Flax Meal
By using flax meal over flax seeds, the body is able to absorb its nutrients easier. Flax is rich in fiber, Omega-3, and protein. They also contain a high source of lignans, which can help lower the risk of cancer and improve overall health.
How to use this Thanksgiving:
Use flax meal to thicken gravy, mix with water to replace eggs, or mix into your stuffing!
Raw Horseradish
Horseradish is closely related to wasabi and mustard. It is high in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system, repairs body tissue, and helps with the absorption of iron.
How to use this Thanksgiving:
Give your recipes a little kick by grating horseradish in your dips, dressings, and potato dishes.
Hemp Seeds
Hemp Seeds are rich in two essential fatty acids, Omega-6 and Omega-3. These fatty acids are great for brain development, strengthening the immune system, and keeping the heart healthy. They are also high in protein, packing 8g per two tablespoons.
How to use this Thanksgiving:
Use in baking mixtures, stir into mashed potatoes, or toss into salads.
Tumeric Powder
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that has been found to reduce swelling and inflammation. Tumeric may also help reduce the buildup of LDL – bad cholesterol – in the arteries.
How to use this Thanksgiving:
Turmeric is more easily absorbed by the body when mixed with fats. Stir some into olive oil to create a marinade for fresh vegetables or meats. You can color your food with a golden hue by adding it to dressings, smoothies, and desserts!
Raw Ginger
Ginger has been used to treat bloating, gas, and other intestinal and digestive ailments.
How to use this Thanksgiving:
Bring a depth of flavor to your meal and add fresh or powdered ginger to veggies, potatoes, spiced cookies, and broths.
Other Quick Health Swaps:
Stuffing: use whole wheat bread.
Roasted Veggies: toss with extra virgin olive oil.
Mashed Potatoes: replace potatoes with cauliflower or blend potatoes and cauliflower together.
Gravy: thicken with flax meal & whole wheat flour.
Baking: use a blend of almond, coconut, and whole wheat flour.